<BearcatCTF 2026>
Setting Sail
About the CTF
Welcome to Cyber@UC's BearcatCTF 2026! This is Cyber@UC's third year running this cybersecurity CTF competition and we are excited for what is planned this year. This event is welcoming students across Ohio, Northern Kentucky, and Southern Indiana to compete in person at the 1819 Innovation Hub. Online participation is encouraged, however, those who are unable to attend in person are ineligible for prizes. Whether you're just starting or you're a seasoned pro, BearcatCTF is the perfect place to learn and test your skills. The day will be packed with more than just the CTF competition, enjoy our sponsor expo, hands-on workshops, fun activities, and free food and drinks. Registration is free and open now!
Challenge Categories
Web Exploitation
Cryptography
Reverse Engineering
Forensics
Binary Exploitation
Event Schedule Will Be Announced Soon!
Prizes Will Be Announced Soon!
Code of Conduct
CTF Rules
-Do not exploit the game server in unintended ways. This includes,
but is not limited to: bruteforcing and other attacks that could damage the server.
-Do not attack or interfere with other player's systems.
-If you need help, come to the CTF desk. The organizers can help you with tools and
resources
but they will not give you answers.
-If you find a challenge to be unsolvable for a possibly unintended reason, come talk to the
organizers. They may be able to help you troubleshoot the problem or fix the
challenge.
-The organizers may add challenges throughout the competition. This is to keep the
competition interesting and challenging for all participants.
Common Sense
-Be respectful of others. This includes treating others with
courtesy and kindness, even if you disagree with them. It also means respecting their
privacy and personal information.
-Do not harass or bully others. Harassment and bullying include any behavior that is
intended
to intimidate, threaten, or humiliate another person. This can include verbal, physical, or
online abuse.
-Be a good sport. This means playing fair and being mature. Be kind to your fellow
competitors.
-Do not cheat or plagiarize. This includes bruteforcing to solve challenges or copying
someone else's work.
-Report any violations or problems to the event organizers.
Prizes
-Prizes are only available for students who pre-register as an in-person
competitor.
-Any participant who fails to do so, must register in-person, onsite before any challenges
are submitted and before the first 5 hours of the CTF to remain eligible for prizes.
FAQ
Is this event beginner-friendly?
Absolutely! We have a range of challenges suitable for all skill levels. We encourage beginners to participate and learn.
What do I need to participate?
All you need to do is register and use a computer with a stable internet connection.
How do I communicate with organizers and other teams?
All event communication will happen on our official Discord server. This is where we'll post announcements, and provide support.